Declutter…and be ruthless
One of the simplest, most cost-effective ways to improve your home’s value is to declutter. Remember potential buyers want to see how much space you have, not what stuff you have.
Overcrowded shelves, cluttered kitchen tops, and wardrobes that don’t shut can make even a spacious home feel cramped.
The best approach is to clear a room at a time. But you have to be ruthless. Don’t be sentimental and hang on to things just in case you might want them – throw them away, better still take them to the charity shop or sell them. Then make sure that what you are keeping is organised and tidy. This helps create more space and give the impression of a well-maintained home – a real selling point!
Time for a lick of paint
Painting is one of the most affordable and easy ways to give your home a facelift. A neutral, modern colour palette can make your rooms feel fresh, clean, and ready to move in. It gets rid of those pesky scuffs and marks that can make a home feel tired and unloved.
The best areas to focus on are those rooms and areas most used. So your living room, hall, stairs and landing, kitchen and bathroom.
Don’t forget outside too. There’s nothing like a freshly painted front door and garden gate if you have one.
Next stop the garden
First impressions matter, and your garden is probably the first thing buyers see. A neat, well-kept outdoor space can increase your home’s perceived value and charm instantly. This is what is referred to as Kerb Appeal.
So get the jet wash out and blast decking and patios, pull up those weeds, mow the lawn and if you can plant a few spring blooms to add a touch of colour. It doesn’t have to cost much, but every little bit helps!
Scrub until everywhere sparkles
Once the clutter is gone and the walls have been given a smart new coat, it’s time to deep clean and sort those little niggly repair jobs that have been driving you mad – worst still you’ve stopped noticing them.
This means cleaning windows – inside and out, polish taps and door knobs, scrub the oven and hob and don’t forget the dishwasher and fridge – people look at everything when they are buying a home.
In the bathroom make sure the grouting and shower door is clean – re-caulk if you have any black mould lurking.
Finally, find your inner handyman and fix those dripping taps, squeaky doors and missing light bulbs. You may have stopped noticing them – but others will!
How does your home feel now?
Once everything is clean and tidy, consider how your home feels. Can you rearrange furniture to make a room feel bigger or brighter? Would sheer curtains let in more natural light? Could a strategically placed mirror enhance space or light?
Then light a candle, bake some bread and stick a pot of coffee on – people will remember how inviting your home looked, felt and smelled!